"These allegations involved use of the Internet and focused on the possibility of crime involving children," Williamson said.

Affidavits filed in federal court describe in detail Internet discussions Bowersox had with a Florida man that reference raping, mutilating and killing children. Williamson said the allegations against Bowersox are an embarrassment to the department.

"Chris was a very well liked officer," Williamson said. "He did an outstanding job on the investigations he conducted, but anytime one of our officers violates the public's trust, it's an embarrassment to the department."

With the allegations against Bowersox, Williamson said he wants the public to know the department is committed to the community.

"We hope coming out in front on this investigation, we can continue to involve, include the community's trust in us and our ability to meet public demand," he said.

Investigators also allegedly found images of child pornography on computers seized from Bowersox's home. The images allegedly include pictures of young boys, girls and animals involved in sex acts.

Bowersox worked with the department's anti-graffiti team, during which he arrested several youth for graffiti crimes, but Williamson said there has been no indication that any of the charges occurred while Bowersox was on duty.

"The department has no indication that the activity for which former Officer Bowersox has been charged with occurred while he was on duty in his capacity as a police officer," he said.

When interviewed by investigators, Bowersox acknowledged the online conversations and said the communication was all fantasy and he never carried out any of the actions.

The FBI, which brought the charges, says it cannot comment on the case as the investigation is continuing.

And neither the FBI or BPD is able to confirm if Bowersox is still in custody.

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